National Park Service Celebrates 96th Birthday

For almost a century, the National Park Service has protected the beauty, passion, and majesty of the parks that are at the heart of our country. Our nation’s parks are treasures for everyone to cherish, and NPS has been a crucial part in preserving these gems for generations of Americans to inherit and enjoy. NPS has allowed Americans to invest in their nation’s history, communities, environments, and legacy, and on August 25th, you and yours are invited to celebrate the 96th birthday of this amazing organization.

America was the first country in the world to set aside its significant places as national parks to be preserved and passed down to its citizens for years to come. On this date in 1916, President Woodrow Wilson and the 64th Congress created the National Park Service. A dedicated force of rangers, administrators, and nature lovers were chosen to protect important federal land, buildings, and monuments.

Hundreds of birthday events are planned from coast to coast, and you are encouraged to visit your favorite park to celebrate with fellow park lovers. Go to www.nps.gov to search for parks by location or events, and if you can’t make it to a park on the 25th don’t sweat it! NPS extends its services into communities throughout the nation, and you can visit www.nps.gov/communities/states.htm to see how you can celebrate in your area.

One of the nation’s biggest celebrations is at Rocky Mountain National Park. The park is hosting its 6th annual BioBlitz, a 24-hour event hosted by NPS and National Geographic. Teams of volunteers, scientists, and families are invited to explore the park together, attend biodiversity classes, and experience science demonstrations, music, and live animals at the Biodiversity Festival. Another monumental celebration will be held at Fort Sumter. This park will celebrate the 96th birthday of the National Park Service with a sidewalk chalk coloring contest at the Fort Sumter Visitor Education Center.

The NPS has set up a birthday website for park lovers to upload pictures, stories, and birthday greetings to share. Visit this site to get the party started! Happy Birthday, NPS!